Axim’s Forts, Paa Grant heritage and Islands can boost tourism

The Member of Parliament for Evalue-Ajomoro-Gwira, Hon. Kofi Arko Nokoe, has underscored the enormous tourism potential of his constituency, describing the sector as a direct pathway for economic growth and improved livelihoods for local residents.

Speaking in an interview on Off the Lens, on Online Times‘ YouTube channel, the MP said his constituency is strategically positioned as a major tourism destination, with several historic and natural attractions that can draw visitors to the area.

According to him, efforts are underway to encourage tourists to explore more destinations within the constituency instead of making brief trips to nearby attractions.

“My constituency has always been a place where tourism stands out. We believe people should not travel all the way from Accra to Nzulezo and immediately return. There is more to see in Axim,” he said

He pointed to several key landmarks in Axim that reflect the area’s rich history, including Fort St. Anthony, the residence and burial place of George Alfred Grant, popularly known as Paa Grant, as well as a location where Kwame Nkrumah once stayed while working as a teacher in the town.

The MP also highlighted the presence of what he described as one of the largest and most beautiful islands in West Africa within the constituency, which he said presents further opportunities for tourism development.

Kofi Arko Nokoe explained that tourism has a unique advantage because it directly benefits local people and small businesses.

“I have always believed that tourism is a direct way where the people can benefit. When a tourist is in town and buys an orange or water, it goes directly to the seller; it does not go through many channels,” he noted.

He added that traditional authorities in the area are also playing a role in promoting development through unity and cooperation.

According to him, five paramount chiefs in the constituency have come together to support a common development agenda aimed at harnessing the area’s tourism potential and promoting economic growth.

“This is a time when we need to be together and design a common course for development. When we work with a common purpose, we can achieve much,” he said.

The lawmaker also pointed to several infrastructure and social development projects currently underway in the constituency.

Among them is the construction of the Simpa Junction to Bokazo road, which he said will significantly improve connectivity in the area.

In addition, he noted that the government has supported the construction of community infrastructure such as CHPS compounds, classroom blocks, markets and boreholes to improve access to healthcare, education and water.

“This year alone we have built two CHPS compounds, two classroom blocks and several boreholes,” he said, adding that similar projects are being undertaken annually.

Kofi Arko Nokoe expressed optimism that sustained investment and unity among stakeholders could transform the constituency over time.

“If every year we add projects like two CHPS compounds, two school blocks and a market, you can imagine what we can achieve within eight to fifteen years,” he said.

He stressed that continued collaboration and unity among local leaders and residents will be key to unlocking the constituency’s full development potential.

Click the link below to watch the full interview…